Documentary and Factual Production

Documentary and factual series production is non-fiction programming that seeks to communicate information about actual events, people, science, the natural world, social issues, and history. Documentary and factual productions sometimes share a specific perspective or point of view and they can incorporate a range of story-telling techniques including re-enactments, docudrama, animation, archives, stills and live action. Other unscripted productions include variety (music, comedy), awards shows, lifestyle and reality series. Manitoba is home to many talented documentary filmmakers and producers of factual and unscripted series working in English, French and Indigenous languages. 

Documentary, factual and unscripted productions have smaller teams than drama productions. Each member of the crew may be expected to perform several roles. Projects usually span several months, or even years, with gaps in production. Those working as writers, researchers, camera operators, sound technicians, directors of photography and editors typically work on several projects in any one year and in Manitoba they may work on commercials, features and scripted series. Producers, directors and filmmakers typically have more hours on any one production so will likely work on fewer projects. Non-fiction productions are generally not unionized so connecting and networking with others in this area is key.

Getting started in Documentary and Factual production:

• Join On Screen Manitoba to access industry news, networking opportunities, professional development and more across the entire industry.

• Subscribe to In Focus, On Screen Manitoba’s free weekly bilingual newsletter and follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

• Connect with organizations that offer access to production support, equipment, volunteer opportunities and workshops:

  • DOC Manitoba

  • Indigenous Filmmakers Association

  • Indigenous Film Summit

  • The 48 Festival

  • Winnipeg Film Group

  • Video Pool Media Arts Centre

  • ACTRA

• Gain experience by volunteering on a student or independent production through contact with the Winnipeg Film Group.

• Stay up to date with what is happening in the industry. Here are some groups that regularly post production jobs and volunteer opportunities:

  • Get on Set Manitoba Facebook page

  • Film & Television Production in Winnipeg

  • Womxn’s Film & Video Network (Manitoba)

  • I need a producer/fixer/ crew – Canada Edition

• Browse department and position descriptions here to discover your potential role(s).

• Take the Set Orientation Course. Film Training Manitoba delivers the course online and in the classroom. This is a prerequisite for all positions on set.

• Gain experience a film set by doing extra or background acting work. You will be able to see what happens on set and see how film technicians work together. ACTRA Manitoba lists Background Casting Directors. 

• On Screen Manitoba organizes opportunities for emerging creators of all ages and levels of experience interested in documentary, factual, unscripted, variety, animation, drama features and series.

  • Telefilm Canada’s Talent to Watch program

  • RBC $10,000 Pitch at the Gimli Film Festival

  • All Access
     

On Screen Manitoba is your connection to the Manitoba media production industry. We can help to guide you to the appropriate resources and opportunities.

Please contact us for more information.